TH310 – Term Paper – THEATRE AND CULTURAL ZENITH Your critique will be 4-5 pages (approximately 1000 words) in length -- typed and double-spaced

TH310 – Term Paper – THEATRE AND CULTURAL ZENITH

Your critique will be 4-5 pages (approximately 1000 words) in length -- typed and double-spaced. Form and content will be evaluated in your writing.

Compare and contrast Sophocles’ Oedipus, Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and Miranda’s Hamilton as works of dramatic art that express the social and political context of their unique societies. How are these plays expressions of the cultural zeniths we consider ancient Athens, Elizabethan England, and modern America to be? Consider the functions these plays serve for their audiences, the audiences’ relationship to the story, the language, and the innovative performance styles. How do the themes and subject matter of the three plays intersect? Do the three societies share values or similar histories? Please explain with specific examples. Identify commonalities and differences relating to symbol, character, and dramatic structure. How do the protagonists of each play transform from beginning to end?

Conclude your paper by answering why having knowledge of these plays is important and what we can learn from them in our world today. What does Hamilton, in particular, say about us as a modern society (specifically the United States today)?

Your essay needs a thesis statement that you will provide evidence for in the body of your paper. Include quotations from the play, particularly language that supports your interpretation and analysis.

Due on Friday, May 14th, at 11:59pm, but please turn this in sooner if you can. Upload your Word document or PDF (no Google docs) per the instructions on Canvas.